Chateau Marmont

Great for spotting stars, GQ man of the year celebration took place last Thursday. The "pops" were out but we missed all the stars exiting the hotel

Each room is unique. Nothing matches. Everything feels like it has a story to tell. Legendary in terms of old Hollywood chic, and dripping A-Listers coming to hang out, the Chateau Marmont is a quirky elite hotel for those who want a place that feels more like (a very nice) home than a luxe hotel. The restaurant stresses local produce, strong preparation and elegant service. It is French-leaning classic cuisine, but with a strong overlay of California fruit/vegetable/fish. The room service menu mirrors the restaurant, and the slightly more laidback pool service is delicious. And that pool is an incredible place to spend time. Smallish, the chaise. lounges and small sofas suggest languishing while waiting for the big deal to come through. Indulgence is encouraged; the frose alone is worth the afternoon lost, For those who can afford the Cabanas, they are the best of the California Joan Didion celebrated in THE WHITE ALBUM. White washed, shabby chic, full of light, they sprawl and ramble -- and foment creativity without being obvious. Yes, the bar scene is terrific. The living room off the check-in area is equal parts Morocco, your rich grandparents' home and Keith Richards' '70s aesthetics. With a staff who aims to help, it's worth the splurge.